MIRI – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has warned fishermen in Sarawak about rough seas at present, with waves of up to 4.5m plus winds of up to 60kph occurring in the South China Sea off the state’s coast.
The agency’s Sarawak office issued its advisory to all fishing communities throughout the state’s coastal areas, urging them to be vigilant as the weather may take a turn for the worse.
In a statement today, Sarawak MMEA director Adm Zin Azman Mohd Zin said that all Sarawak fishermen should avoid going offshore into the South China Sea at present if possible.
“In the deeper waters off Sarawak’s coast, the waves can reach up to 4.5m high with winds exceeding 60kph.
“These conditions are dangerous for all kinds of sea activities, even for those on board oil platforms and big ships.
“Closer to the shore, winds are being recorded between 40 to 50kph with waves up to 3.5m high.
“These conditions are also dangerous for fishing boats and any sea activities.
“Do not go offshore for now until further notice,” he said.
Zin also urged the media to amplify these warnings to those involved in sea-related sports and offshore leisure activities.
He said the dangerous conditions offshore can be risky even for ferries and cruise ships.
“For those whose work involves going offshore, they must check the latest weather conditions, keep alert at all times, and keep in constant contact with the fishing authorities and maritime agencies.
“Everyone going offshore must wear safety gear, put on personal location emergency beacons and have communication equipment ready at all times,” he stressed.
The dangerous sea conditions, he said, could last until March.
“The MMEA will closely monitor the latest weather updates and keep tabs on the strong winds and turbulent waves round the clock,” he added. – The Vibes, January 4, 2022
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